Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi (One-Pan, 20 Minutes)

If you’re looking for a quick and comforting meal, then you’ve come to the right place! Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi (One-Pan, 20 Minutes) is one of those delightful dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. This recipe has been a favorite in my kitchen for years, effortlessly transforming busy weeknights into something special. With just one pan and minimal prep, it’s perfect for those evenings when you want a satisfying meal without the fuss.

What truly makes this dish shine is its versatility. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting friends for dinner, this creamy gnocchi brings everyone together around the table. Plus, who can resist that rich garlic sauce mingling with fresh spinach and mushrooms? It’s comfort food at its best!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Made in just 20 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for busy nights.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal and relax!
• Family-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will love the creamy texture and flavor-packed veggies.
• Make Ahead: Prepare it in advance and simply reheat for an effortless dinner.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of garlic, spinach, and mushrooms creates a mouthwatering experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! This recipe uses easy-to-find items that come together beautifully to create a delicious dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Gnocchi

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 8 oz mushrooms (crimini)
• salt and pepper
• 16 oz potato gnocchi
• ½ cup vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (or Herbs from Provence)
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (or more)
• 5 oz fresh spinach
• ¼ teaspoon salt (to taste)
• coarsely ground black pepper (to taste)
• red pepper flakes (to taste)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add Extra Veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for an added burst of color and nutrients.
• Swap the Cream: Use coconut milk or cashew cream if you’re looking for a lighter or dairy-free option.
• Change the Greens: Kale or arugula can be great substitutes if you want to switch things up.
• Boost the Protein: Add chickpeas or white beans for an extra protein punch while keeping it meatless.

How to Make Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi (One-Pan, 20 Minutes)

Step 1: Sauté the Mushrooms

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once hot, add in your sliced crimini mushrooms along with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Sauté them until they’re golden brown—this step brings out their earthy flavor, making them even more delicious!

Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasonings

Once your mushrooms are perfectly sautéed, add the minced garlic along with Italian seasoning and smoked paprika. Stir everything together for about a minute until fragrant. This step is essential because it infuses your dish with aromatic goodness that will make your kitchen smell heavenly.

Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi

Now it’s time to add the potato gnocchi directly into the pan. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring everything to a gentle simmer. The gnocchi will cook quickly in this flavorful liquid, soaking up all those delicious seasonings as they soften.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Once the gnocchi is cooked through—about 3-5 minutes—pour in the heavy cream. Stir gently to combine everything into a luscious sauce. As it thickens slightly, it coats all those beautiful gnocchi and veggies perfectly.

Step 5: Finish with Spinach

Finally, fold in your fresh spinach until wilted. Sprinkle with additional salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes according to your taste preferences. This last touch adds freshness both visually and flavor-wise!

And there you have it—a plate full of creamy goodness ready to be enjoyed! Serve hot, savor every bite, and share this delightful meal with loved ones.

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi (One-Pan, 20 Minutes)

Cooking should be fun and easy, so here are some pro tips to help you create the perfect creamy spinach and mushroom gnocchi!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and mushrooms not only enhance the flavor but also add a vibrant color to your dish, making it visually appealing.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: If you’re making a larger batch, cook the mushrooms in batches. This ensures they sauté rather than steam, giving you that lovely golden color and rich flavor.

• Adjust the creaminess: For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with vegetable broth. This keeps the dish rich without being too heavy.

• Customize your seasoning: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. Adding a pinch of nutmeg can bring out the flavors beautifully!

• Add extra veggies: Don’t hesitate to throw in other veggies like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers. They will add more texture and nutrients to your meal!

How to Serve Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi (One-Pan, 20 Minutes)

This creamy spinach and mushroom gnocchi is not just delicious; it’s also versatile! Here are some delightful ways to present and enjoy this dish.

Garnishes

• Grated Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of dairy-free grated cheese adds a savory touch that complements the creaminess perfectly.
• Fresh herbs: Chopped parsley or basil can brighten up the dish while adding a fresh flavor.
• Toasted pine nuts: These nutty little gems provide a crunchy contrast that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is an excellent accompaniment to soak up all that rich creamy sauce. It’s an easy favorite!
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to the richness of the gnocchi.
• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli not only adds color but also provides additional nutrition and crunch. Drizzle with olive oil for extra flavor!
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables brings depth and variety to your meal, enhancing both taste and presentation.

Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions, it’s time to gather your ingredients and whip up this delightful one-pan meal! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi is not just a delightful dish to whip up in 20 minutes, but it also shines as a fantastic meal prep option. You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure to label your container with the date for easy tracking!

Freezing

• This gnocchi dish can be frozen, but the texture may change slightly once thawed.
• To freeze, portion out individual servings into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Be sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing, and label with the date.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• If reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• You can add a splash of chicken broth or cream while reheating to restore creaminess.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe.

Can I make Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi without heavy cream?

Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative for a lighter version while keeping it creamy.

How long does it take to prepare Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi?

This recipe comes together quickly—just about 20 minutes total! Perfect for a weeknight dinner when you’re short on time.

What other vegetables can I add to this recipe?

Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or kale for added flavor and nutrition!

Can I use fresh gnocchi instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! Fresh gnocchi will work beautifully and may even cook faster than dried varieties. Just keep an eye on cooking times.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi! It’s such a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor into your kitchen. Whether you enjoy it as a hearty main course or pair it with your favorite protein, I’m sure you’ll love every bite. Happy cooking!